Fast forward one year later, another very cold MD morning (8 F). Car would crank but not turn over. As you see in the above posts from my experience last winter, I suspect the problem is the HFM computer which over-enrichens the mixture during cold startup. I understand that there has been a software update, but I'm reluctant to spend the $1200 or so for a new computer. The trick of keeping the accelerator pedal down during startup to let more air in didn't work either. Couldn't even get it started after the temps went up to the 40s the following days. My mechanic suggested removing the fuel pump fuse and cranking it to burn off the excess fuel. This worked (the engine ran for a few seconds) but when the fuse was replaced, it didn't start. So got it towed to my mechanic. He said that the engine was flooded (no surprise) and that the plugs were oil fouled (likely due to the mileage). No faults. His other suggestion is to install a block heater for those exceptionally cold days to "trick" the computer so it wouldn't over-richen. Does this seem like it would work? Could we be missing something? Fuel pump relay and OVP are new. Wiring harness and MAF sensor have been replaced several years ago by previous owner.

Had this car for about 3 years now and other than these two episodes and a starter, it has been very reliable. Head gasket has been already addressed so I figure the only big ticket item left would be throttle actuator and evaporator.